The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign James Arden Barnett (NSN: 0-320819), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy forces on 12 October 1944, in the vicinity of Formosa. While a member of a night fighter combat air patrol, he assisted in destroying three attacking enemy torpedo planes within sight of the Task Group, and personally shot down one plane. This feat was accomplished in spite of being fired upon by friendly forces. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.